Ear infections aren’t just something children get. Adults can develop them too, and when they do, the symptoms can be uncomfortable and disruptive. If you’ve noticed ear pain, changes in hearing or discharge, it’s understandable to feel concerned.
The good news is that most ear infections can be treated effectively once the cause is identified.
What is an ear infection?
An ear infection occurs when part of the ear becomes inflamed, usually due to a viral or bacterial infection. In adults, infections most commonly affect either:
- The outer ear (known as otitis externa)
- The middle ear (known as otitis media)
The outer ear includes the ear canal. The middle ear sits behind the eardrum and connects to the back of the nose through the Eustachian tube (a small passage that helps balance pressure in the ear, such as when you yawn or swallow).
Understanding which part of the ear is affected and why helps guide treatment.
Otitis externa (outer ear infection)
Otitis externa is an infection of the ear canal. It’s sometimes called ‘swimmer’s ear’ because it can develop after water becomes trapped in the ear.
Common symptoms include:
- Ear pain, often worse when touching or moving the ear
- Itching inside the ear canal
- Swelling or redness
- Discharge from the ear
- A feeling of blockage
The skin lining the ear canal can become irritated by moisture, cotton buds or hearing aids. Once the skin barrier is disrupted, infection can develop more easily.
Treatment usually involves medicated ear drops to reduce infection and inflammation. Keeping the ear dry during recovery is important. Many times, antibiotics taken by mouth aren’t enough to treat outer ear infections, particularly if the debris and infected material in the ear needs to be cleaned out (micro-suction).
Otitis media (middle ear infection)
Otitis media affects the space behind the eardrum. In adults, it’s often linked to a recent cold, sinus infection or upper respiratory tract infection.
When you have a cold, the Eustachian tube, which connects the middle ear to the back of the nose, can become swollen. This prevents normal drainage and allows fluid to build up behind the eardrum. That trapped fluid can then become infected.
Symptoms may include:
- Deep ear pain
- A feeling of pressure or fullness
- Reduced hearing
- Fever
- Occasionally, discharge if the eardrum ruptures
Acute (short-term) otitis media often improves on its own. In some cases, antibiotics may be prescribed, particularly if symptoms are severe or persistent.
When should you seek medical advice?
Mild ear discomfort can sometimes settle within a few days. However, you should seek specialist assessment if:
- Symptoms last more than a few days
- You notice hearing loss that doesn’t improve
- There’s discharge from the ear
- Pain is severe or worsening
- Infections keep returning
Recurrent infections may suggest an underlying issue such as Eustachian tube dysfunction (where pressure regulation in the ear isn’t working properly), sinus problems or skin conditions affecting the ear canal.
How an ear, nose and throat (ENT) specialist can help
A careful examination of the ear by an ENT specialist is usually enough to confirm the diagnosis. In some cases, a hearing test may be arranged, particularly if symptoms have affected your hearing.
Treatment depends on the type and severity of the infection. This may include:
- Prescription ear drops
- Oral antibiotics if needed
- Pain relief guidance
- Cleaning of the ear canal (micro-suction)
If infections are recurring, further investigation may be needed to address the root cause rather than simply treating repeated flare-ups.
Book an appointment with Mr Wale Olarinde
If you’re experiencing ear pain, discharge or changes in hearing, you don’t have to wait and see if it settles. Getting the right diagnosis early can prevent complications and speed up recovery.
Mr Wale Olarinde is an experienced ENT specialist serving Sheffield, Chesterfield and the surrounding areas. He’ll take the time to assess your symptoms thoroughly and recommend the most effective treatment for you.
To arrange a consultation, book an appointment with Mr Wale Olarinde today.